Agreement to reform EU Customs Code
EU Customs Union reform introduces new e-commerce duties, data-driven customs, and enhanced compliance measures.
The European Commission (EC) today issued a release announcing an agreement between the European Parliament and the Council on a reform of the EU Customs Union. The reform introduces measures for e-commerce and a modern, data-driven customs architecture.
The reform addresses challenges such as the surge in low-value e-commerce imports, unsafe products, fraud, and shifting geopolitical trade dynamics. Proposed in May 2023, the reform includes smarter risk management, a modern e-commerce framework, and a stronger partnership with businesses, supported by the new EU Customs Authority (EUCA). The EUCA will coordinate customs operations across the EU and manage the EU Customs Data Hub, a single digital interface for customs operations.
The reform also introduces a €3 duty on parcels valued below €150, starting July 1, 2026, and a handling fee on imported goods by November 1, 2026. E-commerce operators will have increased responsibilities for compliance with EU legislation.
The regulation will come into effect 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.